Full Story Back to Back Barries: Does Albanese need to choose China over Trump?
Jul 18, 2025
The hosts dissect the prime minister's trade visit to China, weighing its significance in balancing ties with both China and the U.S. They explore the complex dynamics of Australia-China relations and the media's role in shaping political perceptions. The conversation also touches on free speech policies and fiscal challenges within Australia's gas industry. Additionally, they delve into the tightly contested electoral race in Bradfield, drawing parallels to historical cases, and analyze the implications of the recent Tasmanian election on the AFL landscape.
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Episode notes
China Seen as Trade Good Guy
- Anthony Albanese's China visit contrasts sharply with Trump’s trade approach, highlighting China as the "trade good guy." - Trump's tariffs on Australia allowed China to gain a positive trade image, an own goal for the US.
Australia's Dual Strategic Partners
- China remains Australia's dominant economic partner with a third of exports going there, totaling over $200 billion. - Australia must balance its vital relationships with both China and the US strategically and economically.
Misframing Albanese's China Trip
- The media framed Albanese's China trip as risky, focusing on a potential US-China conflict which was an unreasonable question. - Such framing overlooked the importance of maintaining mature trade relations irrespective of US domestic politics.